How to Wear Sunglasses With Glasses

You're one of the 4 billion people worldwide who wear glasses. But what happens when you want to enjoy the sun without searching for shade? How can you wear glasses with sunglasses?

Keep reading, and we'll tell you what to do when you want to wear sunglasses and glasses at the same time.

Key Takeaways

  • If you want to wear prescription glasses with sunglasses, you can either use fit-over sunglasses or clip-on sunglasses.
  • Alternatively, you can wear prescription sunglasses, glasses with photochromic lenses, or contact lenses with regular sunglasses.
  • Schedule your appointment here for a personal styling session with our team of experienced and trained opticians.

See Related: How To Put in Contacts: A Step-by-Step Guide

2 Ways to Wear Sunglasses With Glasses

Before you try layering your summer sunglasses over your regular glasses, stop! Not only will that be uncomfortable and bulky to say the least, but it can lead to dents, scratches, or chips on your glasses and/or sunglasses.

Here's what you should do instead:

#1. Wear "Fit-Over" Sunglasses

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"Fit-over" sunglasses are designed to, as you might guess, fit over your existing glasses. While we don't recommend wearing sunglasses over glasses for several reasons, "fit-over" sunglasses could be a safe and comfortable alternative.

However, some still find "fit-over" sunglasses to be less fashionable and more bulky than other options - of course, this boils down to personal preference.

#2. Wear Clip-On Sunglasses

Clip-ons are far slimmer and lighter than "fit-over" sunglasses. Clip-on sunglasses just snap into place, making them ideal if you're on the go or moving back and forth between bright and dim lighting.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to clip-ons. For starters, they might not fit your glasses, or the lenses might not be the right size. That's why at Oculus Eyecare, we source custom clip-ons to match each and every frame we sell. Some of the iconic brands we carry, such as Moscot and Andy Wolf, have clip-ons that are made to fit their frames.

If you don't want to use "fit-overs" or clip-ons, we have a few alternatives.

3 More Ways to Wear Sunglasses With Glasses

"Fit-over" or clip-on sunglasses aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. Maybe you want something lightweight and slim, or maybe you want an all-in-one pair of eyewear.

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#1. Prescription Sunglasses

Prescription sunglasses are a perfect way to live comfortably and see clearly. Having multiple pairs of eyewear, including glasses and sunglasses, can provide you with convenience and freedom. Our optical boutique carries a variety of glasses and sunglasses that can be adjusted or personalized to fit your lifestyle and eyewear needs.

So, if you'd like a pair of prescription sunglasses, we can make that happen. Our frames are sourced from independent designers and luxury brands, ensuring each item is of high quality, extremely durable, and aesthetically pleasing.

#2. Glasses With Photochromic Lenses

An excellent alternative to prescription sunglasses is regular prescription glasses with photochromic lenses. Light-responsive lenses (photochromic lenses) can adapt to UV light, essentially transforming them from glasses into sunglasses when exposed to sunlight. Pretty handy, right?

Photochromic lenses in your glasses are a comfortable and convenient option for many. Plus, they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays (similar to the way many sunglasses do.)

Bonus: Can Glasses Actually Make Your Vision Worse?

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#3. Contact Lenses With Regular Sunglasses

If you wear contact lenses, you can easily wear your regular sunglasses at the same time. Problem solved!

The Bottom Line

In the summer, you deserve to live life to the fullest! It can be a challenge to enjoy your outdoor activities if you're battling the sun the whole day. However, there are many options to consider if you want to wear sunglasses with glasses.

From clip-on sunglasses to photochromic glasses, there are many ways to protect your eyes from the sun this summer. Schedule an appointment at our Seattle eye clinic, and our team of opticians will help you find the perfect pair of eyewear.

Keep Reading: Photophobia (Light Sensitivity): What Is It?

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People Also Ask

How to wear sunglasses if you have glasses?

There are several ways to wear sunglasses if you have glasses (and, no, it doesn't require you to wear contact lenses, though that is an option). You can wear clip-on sunglasses, prescription sunglasses, or glasses with photochromic lenses.

What kind of sunglasses should I get if I wear glasses?

If you wear glasses, you have a few options for sunglasses. Clip-on sunglasses are a simple and effective option if you don't want to swap out your glasses. You can also use prescription sunglasses or glasses with tinted lenses.

It's not ideal to wear your glasses and sunglasses simultaneously, as this can be uncomfortable and even cause damage to your eyewear. If you choose to do so, ensure you have "fit-over" sunglasses, which are specifically designed to fit over your glasses.

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Oculus Eyecare is Seattle’s premier optometry practice and optical boutique for those looking to see and be seen in a new way. Located in South Lake Union on Denny Way, Oculus Eyecare offers comprehensive eye care services and exams for individuals and families in Seattle. Click here to schedule an appointment or a personal styling session. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.

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